Former Super Eagles left-back Ifeanyi Udeze has thrown his full support behind Kenneth Omeruo’s move to CFR Cluj, Soccernet.ng reports.
The former PAOK Thessaloniki reveals that the centre-back still has plenty to offer at both club and international levels.
Omeruo recently signed a two-year deal with the Romanian giants as a free agent after severing ties with Turkish side Kasimpasa in January.
The former Chelsea defender spent the latter part of the season recovering from an injury setback, and his switch to Romania’s SuperLiga is seen as a fresh start.
In an exclusive chat with Footy-Africa, Udeze, who earned 35 caps for Nigeria and had a brief loan spell at Premier League side West Bromwich Albion, expressed confidence that Omeruo can rediscover his best form.
“I am happy with his move to Romania, and I wish him all the best. He is a very good defender — a top defender — and can help the club achieve a lot,” Udeze said.
“Omeruo is the type of defender that, when I see in the national team, the Super Eagles, I feel very happy because he is the kind of player who hates to concede.”
Udeze, now a football pundit, also believes Omeruo’s experience and mentality remain crucial assets for the Nigerian national team.
“Whether we like it or not, he is someone we need. He gives his all whenever he plays. His mentality is top-notch. He is exactly the kind of player we need in the Super Eagles,” he added.
However, Udeze emphasised the need for Omeruo to play consistently at CFR Cluj to return to the national fold.
“What he needs to do to get back into the national set-up is to be consistent at his club, be a starter, and the rest will follow,” he explained.
“He is still an important player for us, but he needs to start playing regular football with his new club, improve his physical condition, and see how he can come in and help us — if the Super Eagles manager extends him an invitation.”
Omeruo has earned more than 60 caps for Nigeria and has featured in two FIFA World Cup tournaments. His experience could prove vital for the Super Eagles as they prepare for the 2025 AFCON tournament.
Ayomide Oguntimehin
Ayomide Oguntimehin is a CAF-accredited sports journalist and Editor at Soccernet.ng, with a proven track record in conducting interviews with Super Eagles stars such as William Troost-Ekong, Taiwo Awoniyi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Ademola Lookman, and many others. He has also made a significant impact in breaking transfer news stories.
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